Sidewalk Cafes & Parking Patios

A valid City of Saskatoon Commercial Business License is required in order to receive a Sidewalk Cafe or Parking Patio license, which is non-transferable and valid only for the location specified on the license. The purpose of the license is to ensure Sidewalk Cafes and Parking Patios are established in a safe and orderly manner and to promote pedestrian uses and increase street-level activity.

Standards to consider before starting a Sidewalk Cafe or Parking Patio

Sidewalk Cafes and Parking Patios shall be located adjacent to an existing restaurant as an accessory use and must maintain the same operating hours of the principle restaurant.

The operator of a Sidewalk Cafe or Parking Patio must carry a minimum of $2,000,000 liability insurance.

A minimum clear passage way of not less than 2.0 metres for pedestrians shall be maintained between the curb (sidewalk cafes only) or any physical obstruction such as utility poles, fire hydrants, bus shelters, parking meters, trees, benches or garbage receptacles.

Stay warm

Offer blankets and other heat sources to help keep your patrons warm on cooler days. Try brightly coloured blankets that attract the eye and help draw in customers.

Plan for snow

Ensure you have a plan for storing snow and snow removal.

Consider using snow as a decorative element for your sidewalk café.

Cover up

Consider protection from the wind. Options might include using windscreens or vegetation to help keep your patrons warmer while they enjoy your sidewalk café.

Get a seasonal building permit to construct a covered area. Please contact the Building Standards Division for more information at 306-975-2645.

Are you looking for ways to make your vision come true?

WinterCityYXE has a grant program available to non-profit organizations, community groups, businesses, or for-profit organizations for funding to help enhance their winter activities and projects. Grant applications are being accepted until May 18, 2018, check out Saskatoon.ca/wintercityyxe for more information.

Sidewalk Cafe & Parking Patio License Fees

There is no additional fee to apply for a Sidewalk Cafe or Parking Patio license. It is considered an addition to the existing Commercial Business License. Parking Patios are required to pay all necessary temporary reservation parking fees prior to issuance of a license. Parking Services charges $14.40 per day for the first month the space is occupied. Following the initial one month period the fee is reduced to $12.96 per paid parking day. Paid parking days are Monday to Saturday, excluding statutory holidays.

Approving Agencies

Once your application is received, it will be referred to the following agencies for approval: